I get amazing strength when conditions are overcrowded” nurses experience in handling covid-19 patients during outbreaks in emergency rooms.

Nurses’ Experiences Caring for COVID-19 Patients in Emergency Rooms During Outbreaks

The COVID-19 pandemic tested healthcare systems worldwide, with emergency room (ER) nurses facing unprecedented challenges. A qualitative phenomenological study from Universitas Padjadjaran’s Faculty of Nursing researchers, Prof. Yanny Trisyani, SKp, MN., Ph.D., Prof. Etika Emaliyawati,S.Kep.,Ners.,M.Kep., in collaboration with Sekolah Tinggi Ilmu Kesehatan Medistra Indonesia, delves into the lived experiences of seven ER nurses who cared for COVID-19 patients during outbreak peaks in mid-2021.

Through in-depth semi-structured interviews and Colaizzi method analysis, the study reveals key themes including the intense crisis atmosphere, fear of infection and transmission, social stigma and family rejection, gratitude for health after surviving infection, mutual emotional support among nurses, and strengthened preparedness for future outbreaks.

Despite facing fear and social challenges, nurses found resilience through shared experiences and emotional solidarity, highlighting their vital role as frontline warriors. The study emphasizes the urgent need for hospitals to provide consistent psychological support and specialized training, such as SPGDT-B RS protocols, to enhance nurse readiness and well-being.

This research contributes to Sustainable Development Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-being) by promoting healthcare worker safety, mental health, and quality emergency care during public health crises.

🔗 Read the full preprint: https://doi.org/10.31893/multirev.2025362